Qcells and Greentech Renewables Partner to Expand Solar Recycling in the U.S.

According to a joint announcement by Qcells and Greentech Renewables, the two companies have launched a strategic collaboration aimed at creating a nationwide solar panel recycling infrastructure. The initiative begins with the establishment of two community collection hubs under EcoRecycle by Qcells at Greentech’s Tampa and Palmetto, Florida locations, marking a significant step toward circular sustainability in the solar sector.

The new hubs will serve as the first public collection sites for decommissioned or damaged solar panels from both residential and commercial sources. As reported, the program offers a local and convenient drop-off solution designed to divert end-of-life solar materials from landfills—an increasingly pressing issue as the U.S. solar market continues to grow.

EcoRecycle, Qcells’ newly established recycling division, plans to expand this model beyond Florida, with future hubs envisioned across the Southeast and other regions of the country. At its flagship recycling facility in White, Georgia, EcoRecycle expects to process up to 500,000 solar panels annually, reinforcing Qcells’ commitment to advancing a national circular economy for clean energy materials.

According to the announcement, the recycling process uses proprietary high-purity separation technologies to recover valuable resources such as glass, aluminum, copper, and silver. These materials will be reintegrated into Qcells’ U.S.-based solar manufacturing operations, reducing carbon emissions, strengthening domestic supply chains, and decreasing reliance on imported materials.

“Effectively managing solar panel waste is essential to the health of the clean energy transition,” said Kelly Weger, Senior Director of Sustainability at Qcells. “Through this collaboration, we are offering customers and communities a no-landfill, truly circular solution that supports their sustainability goals while driving progress for the entire industry.”

Hunter David from Greentech Renewables added, “With solar distribution centers strategically located across Florida, Greentech Renewables is making it easier for customers of all sizes to participate in this recycling initiative and advance the circular solar economy.”

Industry observers note that this partnership comes at a pivotal time for the U.S. solar industry, which is projected to face a surge in panel decommissioning as early installations reach the end of their lifespan. According to market analysts, establishing domestic recycling capacity is key to ensuring that the renewable energy transition remains both environmentally and economically sustainable. Federal and state policies promoting clean energy manufacturing and material reuse are also expected to accelerate similar industry collaborations.

By combining manufacturing expertise and distribution networks, Qcells and Greentech Renewables are providing a model for industry-wide cooperation that enhances resource recovery, supports domestic production, and strengthens resilience within America’s clean energy ecosystem.

Source: Qcells